Mike Januik’s work with this juicy red Rhône grape variety shows the promise of growing it in Washington state, and along the Royal Slope in particular. However, he’s been making it at Novelty Hill for Stillwater Creek Vineyard owner Tom Alberg for more than a decade. For the 2014 vintage, aged it 21 months in 42% new barrels, much of them French oak, helping to give it sweet aromas of cinnamon and cedar with black cherry skins, blackberry and mocha. Dark cherry and blueberry flavors pick up juicy pomegranate acidity, more cinnamon and smooth tannins, making for a yummy finish. Fortunately, Novelty Hill has nearly tripled its production of Grenache since 2007.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 332 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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